President Adama Barrow with President Dr. Julius Maada Bio
By Makutu Manneh
Following hours of speculation over the purpose of Sierra Leonean President Dr. Julius Maada Bio’s visit to Banjul, the Office of the President has issued a statement confirming his meeting with President Adama Barrow—but without revealing the visit’s specific agenda.
Instead, the statement highlighted President Bio’s current role as Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and underscored the longstanding bilateral relationship between Sierra Leone and The Gambia.
According to the release, the visit comes at a critical time for the sub-region, as ECOWAS grapples with challenges including peace and security, political transitions, economic integration, climate change, and youth unemployment.
“President Barrow commends President Bio’s leadership and vision for the region and looks forward to engaging in constructive dialogue during his tenure as ECOWAS Authority Chairman,” the statement read.
The press statement also emphasized the deep historical, cultural, and social ties between the two nations, noting that both have championed democracy, peace, and regional cooperation. It added that discussions would seek to explore new avenues for collaboration in trade, investment, cultural diplomacy, education, tourism, and energy.
“Both states have supported regional cooperation, championing democracy, and fostering peace and stability. Today’s engagement will further strengthen this partnership and explore new opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, cultural diplomacy, education, tourism, and energy,” it noted.
The Gambia also recognized Sierra Leone’s role on the international stage, particularly President Bio’s leadership as Chair of the African Union Committee of Ten (C10) advocating for equitable African representation on the United Nations Security Council. President Barrow praised his counterpart’s “unwavering commitment” to elevating Africa’s voice in global governance.
The statement described the visit as a “testament to the enduring friendship” between the two nations and their shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and united West Africa. It concluded with President Barrow extending his best wishes to President Bio for a successful tenure as ECOWAS Chair, reaffirming The Gambia’s readiness to work closely with Sierra Leone in the interest of their peoples and the wider region.